The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has celebrated Chidimma Adetshina’s remarkable performance at the 73rd Miss Universe competition, describing her achievement as a testament to her resilience and determination.
Chidimma, who represented Nigeria at the global pageant in Mexico, emerged as the first runner-up and was crowned Miss Africa and Oceania 2024, marking a historic moment for the country.
In a congratulatory message issued on Sunday by NIDCOM’s Director of Media and Public Relations, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa lauded Chidimma’s perseverance and unwavering focus despite the challenges she faced in her journey.
“Chidimma’s success is a reward for her doggedness, resilience, and determination,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
“Despite the odds, she remained focused and made Nigeria proud on the global stage.”
Dabiri-Erewa recalled Chidimma’s earlier withdrawal from the Miss South Africa 2024 contest after reaching the final stage.
The withdrawal, shrouded in controversy, was attributed to doubts over her nationality by South African authorities.
“After being literally forced out of South Africa, Nigeria warmly welcomed her back,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
Upon her return, Chidimma was received at the NIDCOM Lagos office, accompanied by Guy Murray Bruce, President of the Silverbird Group.
She was later hosted to a grand reception at The Temple in Victoria Island, Lagos, attended by dignitaries and music legend, Dbanj.
Describing Chidimma as “brilliant, focused, and determined,” Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerians to emulate her patriotic spirit.
“She embodies the true Nigerian spirit—resilient and proud of her roots. We should all strive to project the positive image of our country instead of running it down,” she said.
The Miss Universe 2024 competition was one of the most closely contested in recent years, celebrating the intelligence, talents, and elegance of women from across the globe.
Nigeria’s Chidimma finished just behind Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, who won the crown, taking over from the reigning Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.
Chidimma’s journey to the pageant began after she represented Taraba State and won the Miss Universe Nigeria title, organized by the Silverbird Group.
